Metal Table Top Finish

We have all seen those beautiful metal table in boutique stores and specialty shops. Have you ever wondered how the artist gets that nice finish? The process begins after the table has been designed and cut out of steel. Table tops are usually made out of 1/8″ steel sheet for smaller tops and 3/16″ hot rolled plate for a larger top. If the steel is purchased with a pickled and oiled finish, then the process of design can begin. If not, then the artist needs to remove the existing mill scale by peeling off using a vinegar solution.
Next, use a flap wheel on your grinder to buff out the steel top. A flap wheel is a bit softer than a regular grinding wheel and should produce that nice circular design finish. The goal is to have a silvery finish when complete.

It takes a little patience and a lot of skill to buff the desired design into your table top. Work in a circular motion rotating the grinder as you go.
After you are finished buffing out the metal top, be careful not to wipe anything across your table top. The steel top has small steel barbs on top left behind by the grinder. If you try and wipe the table top off with any type of cloth, small pieces of lint may get left behind and get stuck during the coating process.
It is best to use an air hose and immediately blow off any remaining residue left behind while grinding the metal table top. At this point in the process the artist may use a heating torch to apply heat to the bottom of the metal table. This will introduce various colors into the design.
The final step is to use automotive clear coat to seal in the finish. Use a spray gun and go over your metal top in a back and forth motion. Never use a paint brush, as that will leave small brush hairs behind as well. Leave the clear coat to dry thoroughly according to directions. You can apply more than one coat if necessary. A good test to do would be to skim you hand over the dried top. If you feel any barbs on your hand, coat again. Always follow manufacturers directions on any paint product.
A review of the steps:
1. Remove mill scale. Unless using pickled and oiled steel.
2. Apply heat to the back side of metal table top if color is desired.
3. Seal top using spray automotive clear coat seal.